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New details emerge into cause of death of Brett Gardner’s son Miller

Nick Profile Picby:Nick Geddes03/25/25

NickGeddesNews

Brett Gardner
Kim Klement-Imagn Images

New details have emerged surrounding the tragic death of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner‘s 14-year-old son Miller.

According to a report from the New York Post, Costa Rica police are eyeing food poisoning as a possible cause of death. Authorities ruled out asphyxiation, originally reported as the cause of death.

“Therefore, various samples were sent to the [agency’s] Forensic Science laboratories for three analyses: histology, toxicology and neuropathology,” a rep for Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Police said in an email to The Post. “A study was also requested from the Costa Rican Institute for Research and Teaching in Nutrition and Health at the University of Costa Rica.

“The results are expected to be available in two to three months due to the high demand for autopsies being performed in the country due to the increase in homicides.”

Brett Gardner and his wife Jessica made the announcement of their son’s passing on Sunday. Gardner and his wife shared an emotional message distributed by the Yankees, revealing that Miller fell ill “along with several other family members while on vacation.”

Yankees great Brett Gardner announces death of 14-year-old son Miller in heartbreaking message

“With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation,” the statement read. “We have so many questions and so few answers at this point, but we do know that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st. 

“Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”

The Gardner family were vacationing at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort outside Manuel Antonio National Park. Miller was found dead in his bed. Investigators initially believed Miller choked on his own vomit, not ruling out food poisoning as the culprit. Hotel La Mariposa issued a statement to The Post.

“The factors that led to this tragic incident are unknown and we are fully cooperating with authorities,” the hotel said. “We remain committed to supporting our guests and staff, prioritizing their well-being and safety while respecting the privacy of those affected.”

Gardner, 41, spent the entirety of his 14-year MLB career with the Yankees. A 2009 World Series champion, Gardner made his first and only American League All-Star team in 2015 and was a Gold Glove Award recipient in 2016.